New Tryst in Town: Luxury Hotel Caters to LGBTQ+ Guests in Puerto Vallarta

BY JERRY JONES

Puerto Vallarta's LGBTQ+ scene, long a beacon of inclusivity and vibrant nightlife, is about to add a touch of sophisticated luxury to its offerings.

The Tryst Puerto Vallarta is a new hotel spearheaded by hospitality entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft. More than just a place to stay, The Tryst promises to be an experience, an epicenter for LGBTQ+ culture, curated by a man who understands the importance of safe spaces and the joy of a good pool party.

The Tryst is located at 138 Pulpito, the site of a few different hotels that have occupied the space. The 55-room hotel was known as The Abbey, which opened as an adults only gay hotel in 2006. At some point it became the Torre De Oro Hotel. It went up for sale in 2013. In 2017 it was renamed Hotel Amapa (which never opened but underwent extensive renovations).

Schukraft purchased the hotel in early 2024, and has collaborated with the renowned Estudio Esterlina design firm, known for their work on the Four Seasons Tamarindo, to breathe new life into the space. Think minimalist elegance infused with a touch of Mexican flair, creating a modern yet inviting atmosphere. The 55 rooms are a haven for relaxation and connection, fostering a sense of community among guests.

“A lot of the major work was already done, and done really well. We’re mostly doing all the finishing elements and the fixtures and furniture selections in partnership with the team at Estudio Esterlina,” Schukraft explained.

The name for his hotel line (he also owns one in Puerto Rico), The Tryst, is a throwback to his childhood nickname.

“My childhood nickname was Tris. I was on the gay beach in San Juan in Puerto Rico and looking at a property to establish a gay beach club there,” he said. “My realtor told me the hotel next to it was for sale. I looked up and it was called ‘The Tryst.’ I always wanted to own a hotel and here was one for sale with my name on it!”

And so he did indeed purchase that hotel, and he says his philosophy for Tryst Hotels is to “‘let you be your best self, even on your worst behavior. That kind of explains me. I wanted something playful, even though it’s a luxury hotel. We want you to embrace the extraordinary, one Tryst at a time.”

Schukraft's journey to becoming a hospitality mogul wasn't a straight shot. A self-proclaimed "CEO of everything gay," his path began with a love for entertainment. Years ago, inspired by the movie "The Birdcage," a seed was planted – a desire to own a hotel that captured the film's glamorous and welcoming spirit. Fast forward, and Schukraft finds himself not only at the helm of a hotel but also the owner of a string of successful nightclubs, further solidifying his reputation as a champion of LGBTQ+ entertainment.

Schukraft is a technology expert, hotelier and nightlife entrepreneur who has a business portfolio that includes Tryst Hotels (Puerto Rico and Puerto Vallarta), The Abbey (a legendary West Hollywood LGBTQ+ nightclub, MISTR (a telemedicine provider of online PrEP and HIV care), and Circo (a LGBTQ+ nightclub in Puerto Rico).

“Tryst Hotels, The Abbey, MISTR, Circo - they all kind of connect in an interesting way,” he explained.

“There is a generation of LGBT entrepreneurs looking to retire right now and the LGBT-owned businesses that defined our neighborhoods are turning over. If another generation of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs don’t buy them, our queer villages will disappear. Making sure these businesses stay operating and LGBTQ+ owned protects our communities.”

Schukraft's connection to Puerto Vallarta is as genuine as the legendary Mexican sunshine. For over 15 years, the city has been a refuge, a place where he found a welcoming community that transcended labels.

"It's a place where everyone mingles together," he reflects, highlighting the city's unique charm that blends historic streets with a vibrant present. It was this love for Puerto Vallarta, coupled with a growing concern about the future of LGBTQ+ businesses, that led Schukraft to take over a previously existing property and transform it into The Tryst.

The Tryst may be designed with LGBTQ+ travelers in mind, but its doors are open to everyone.

"The only thing straight are the martinis," Schukraft jokes, emphasizing the hotel's commitment to inclusivity. What truly sets The Tryst apart is its unwavering dedication to five-star luxury.

Imagine poolside lounging in glamorous settings, indulging in weekend drag brunches featuring world-class entertainment, or letting loose at rooftop pool parties with renowned DJs spinning the night away. At The Tryst, Schukraft promises an experience where "fabulous is guaranteed."

But Schukraft's vision extends beyond luxury and entertainment. The Tryst prioritizes giving back to the community it calls home. The hotel will be a significant employer, providing over 100 jobs. Additionally, Schukraft is committed to eco-conscious practices and actively supporting the local LGBTQ+ community and minorityowned businesses. This focus on social responsibility reflects a core value within Tryst Hotels – to create a positive impact wherever they set foot.

The Tryst Puerto Vallarta is just the first chapter in Schukraft's hospitality story. He teases the upcoming announcement of a third Tryst Hotel location, solidifying the brand's position as a rising star in LGBTQ+ travel.

Encuentra nuestra versión en español en: outandaboutpv.com